The Countdown Is On: All Roads Lead To Bassline Fest 2026
The wait is almost over. Next Saturday, 23 May, Bassline Fest ‘Say Africa’ takes over Constitution Hill’s People’s Park for a massive 20th-anniversary celebration of legacy, discovery, and African excellence.
Tickets are moving fast – don’t miss the most anticipated Africa Day event of the year.
Now in its 20th edition, Bassline Fest continues its long-standing tradition of celebrating Africa Day through a curated programme of established icons and next-generation talent on the 23rd of May at Constitution Hill’s People’s Park, Johannesburg. The family-friendly festival celebrates Africa Day with headline stars:
- Ami Faku
- Vusi Mahlasela
- Maleh
- Yugen Blakrok
- Brandon Aura
Founder Brad Holmes says:
“For two decades, Bassline Fest has stood as one of Johannesburg’s most important Africa Day celebrations.”
“Say Africa reflects the festival’s mission to celebrate African excellence, creativity, diversity, and shared cultural experience through music. More than just a concert, Bassline Fest has become a gathering point for people who love the energy, artistry, and spirit of Johannesburg itself.”
Set against the iconic skyline backdrop of Constitution Hill, the family-friendly festival transforms People’s Park into a vibrant celebration of African creativity, featuring curated food vendors, craft market stalls, panoramic Joburg skyline views, and a full day of live music.
More about the artists:
- Multi-SAMA-nominated Maleh takes to the stage at Bassfest. With a string of hits under her belt off her exciting new album Dithapelo, fans can look forward to seeing her perform the chart-topping Bula Ditsela, title-track Dithapelo and many more. With the next push on the single “Ubaba” going to radio from 15 May, Bassline Fest arrives as the perfect stage to celebrate one of South Africa’s strongest current vocalists at the height of her powers.
- Currently enjoying a powerful artistic resurgence, Vusi Mahlasela is experiencing a remarkable revival, performing with renewed energy, inspiring audiences nationwide, and reminding South Africa why he remains one of its most beloved musical voices. Supported by Gallo Records, legendary singer-songwriter Vusi Mahlasela will release his new single “Peace to the World” on 22 May.
- Ami Faku is one of South Africa’s most celebrated contemporary artists, renowned for her powerful voice, emotionally resonant songwriting, and distinctive Afro-pop sound rooted in her Xhosa heritage. Born in the Eastern Cape, Ami rose to national prominence following her breakout on The Voice South Africa, quickly establishing herself as one of the country’s most compelling new musical talents. Her debut album Imali reached #1 and earned Gold certification, while hit singles including the 3× Platinum “Into Ingawe” and chart-topping collaborations such as “Abalele,” cemented her status as a commercial and critical force.
- Supported by Empire Records, Brandon Aura will release his new single “Run” on 15 May. The lengthy process of selecting the release single from an abundance of standout material speaks to the extraordinary strength of Brandon’s songwriting and the depth of his catalogue.
- Yugen Blakrok is one of South Africa’s most internationally respected alternative hip-hop artists, renowned for her fiercely intelligent lyricism, genre-defying sound, and commanding live presence. Rising from the Eastern Cape’s underground scene, she has built a global reputation through acclaimed releases, extensive international touring, and high-profile collaborations—including her appearance alongside Kendrick Lamar and Vince Staples on “Opps” from the global blockbuster Black Panther soundtrack.
- Xolani Sithole is one of South Africa’s compelling emerging voices in contemporary Afro-spiritual jazz, blending indigenous storytelling, gospel-rooted expression, and modern jazz harmony into a powerful signature sound. Formerly a lead vocalist and composer with Joyous Celebration, Sithole now steps into his own with Azania, a bold new project produced by internationally acclaimed Blue Note artist Nduduzo Makhathini.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, 23 May 2026
- Venue: Constitution Hill Square
- Times: Gates Open: 12:00 | Performances 1pm – 8pm
- Price: Tickets from R250 – R350
- Tickets: Available from Webtickets
Bassline Fest 2026 is Supported By:
Castle Lite Gig Rig, Joburg Tourism, National Arts Council of South Africa, Jozi My Jozi, Concerts SA, ARMC, Gallo Records, Empire, I Be Music, Constitution Hill, Music In Africa, and Malwandle’s House.
